JP2001295799A - Water supply device, and refrigerator and electric jar pot provided with the device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a water supply device which supplies water from a water storage tank to a predetermined location by a pump, and is compact and capable of fully displaying the function of purifying water. SOLUTION: The water supply device comprises a casing 28 detachably mounted in the water storage tank 22 for sucking to supply water to a predetermined location, a motor 25 for driving an impeller 30 in the casing 28 without contact, a control unit for controlling the drive of the motor 25, and a water purifying filter 31 such that the water purifying filter 31 surrounds a region for a rotation of the impeller 30 in a path in the casing 28 from the impeller 30 to an exhaust port. The water sucked from an inlet port 26 is purified through a wide range of the water purifying filter 31 in the casing 28 surrounding the region for a rotation of the impeller 30.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a water supply apparatus which is mainly mounted on a household refrigerator or an electric jar pot and supplies water from a tank storing water to a predetermined place outside the tank for a certain purpose by a pump. Things.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a water supply apparatus of this kind which is mounted on a home refrigerator as shown in FIGS. A water supply pump 3 is provided in a water storage tank 2 installed in the refrigerator body 1. The water supply pump 3 includes the water storage tank 2
, A motor 5 for rotating the magnet 4 and an impeller 10 with a magnet 9 in a casing 8 provided in the water storage tank 2 and having a water inlet 6 and a water outlet 7.
The motor 5 brings the magnet 4 close to the magnet 9 of the impeller 10 and rotates the impeller 10 in a non-contact manner. Reference numeral 11 denotes a filter installed from the outside at the suction port 6 of the water supply pump 3, and reference numeral 12 denotes an ice making tray to which the water in the water storage tank 2 is supplied by the water supply pump 3 through the water supply pipe 13 and the water supply passage 14, and is provided in the freezing compartment. The ice is made by freezing the water.

In the above configuration, when the motor 5 is driven to rotate the magnet 4, the magnet 9 opposed thereto is also rotated and the impeller 10 is rotated. Then, the water supply pump 3 sucks water in the water storage tank 2 from the suction port 6 by rotation of the impeller 10, discharges the water from the discharge port 7, and supplies the water supply pipe 13 and the water supply path 14.
And then supplied to the ice tray 12. Large foreign matter contained in the water in the water storage tank 2 is removed by the filter 11 when water is sucked from the suction port 6 of the water supply pump 3 so as not to hinder the rotation of the impeller 10.

[0004]

In recent years, consumers have become increasingly inclined to purify tap water when serving it for drinks. Therefore, a filter for merely removing foreign matter in the above-described water supply device in an automatic ice making device for home refrigerators is used. In the case of No. 11, it is impossible to respond to the consumer's intention. Therefore, in order to solve this, it is conceivable to install a large-sized filter having a high water purification capacity at the suction port 6 of the water supply pump 3. However, it is not advisable to install a large-sized water purification filter outside the suction port 6 in a limited space in the water storage tank 2 whose size is limited due to the installation in the refrigerator body 1. .

In addition, it is conceivable to install a large-sized water purification filter in the water storage tank 2 separately from the above-mentioned solution. However, since the water stays frequently without convection, the function of the water purification filter is sufficiently improved. Can not demonstrate.

[0006] The present invention is a water supply device that solves the above problems,
It is compact and allows the water purification function to be fully exhibited.

[0007]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a water supply apparatus of the present invention provides a water pump provided with a flow velocity by a pump in a casing of a pump for sucking water and supplying the water to a predetermined position. A water purification filter is provided at the position.

According to the above means, the water purification filter is located in the casing and is disposed in a relatively wide area, so that the apparatus can be made compact and the purification function can be sufficiently exhibited. Can also.

The water supply apparatus of the present invention further comprises a water storage tank,
A pump that is detachably installed in the water storage tank, suctions water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit that controls driving of the pump. The control unit controls the pump to control the water in the water storage tank. Convection.

According to the above means, since convection is generated in the water in the water storage tank using the water supply pump, the apparatus can be made compact, and the convection is sometimes performed by the control unit. Prevent aging due to water stagnation and maintain freshness.

[0011]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The invention according to claim 1 of the present invention is directed to a water storage tank, a pump which is removably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a pump for the pump. The pump is a water supply device provided with a control unit for controlling driving, wherein the pump is provided with a water purification filter in a casing at a position through which water supplied at a flow rate by the pump passes.

In the above embodiment, the water in the water storage tank sucked by the pump is supplied through a water purification filter provided at a relatively wide area in a casing through which the water flowed by the pump passes. Is done. Therefore, the water purification filter does not have to be particularly large in the casing, so that the pump does not have to be particularly noticeable, yet it can be arranged relatively widely.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is removably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. The pump has a casing provided with a suction port and a discharge port, and means for rotating in the casing to suction and discharge water, and purifying water in a path in the casing from the means to the discharge port. This is a water supply device provided with a filter.

In the above embodiment, the water in the water storage tank sucked by the pump passes through a water purification filter provided at a relatively wide area in the casing from the means for sucking and discharging the water to the discharge port. Water. Therefore,
The water filter is located in the casing and does not require the pump to be particularly large, yet allows it to be located over a relatively large area.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump section which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and drives the pump section in a non-contact manner. A pump drive unit, and a control unit for controlling the rotation of the pump drive unit, the pump unit rotates in a casing provided with a suction port and a discharge port and in this casing,
A water supply device having an impeller for sucking and discharging water, and a water purification filter provided so as to surround a rotation range of the impeller in a path in the casing from the impeller to the discharge port.

In the above embodiment, the water in the water storage tank sucked by the pump section is supplied to the water purification filter provided at a relatively wide area in the casing from the impeller for sucking and discharging the water to the discharge port. Water is supplied through. Therefore, the water purification filter does not have to be particularly large in the casing, so that the pump does not have to be particularly noticeable, yet it can be arranged relatively widely.

The invention described in claim 4 is the first invention.
The water supply device according to claim 3, wherein a pump or a casing of the pump section is formed to be disassembled, and a water purification filter is detachably provided in the casing.

In the above embodiment, when the pump or the pump section is removed from the water storage tank and the casing is disassembled, it becomes possible to take out the water purification filter from the inside of the casing and wash dirt.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is removably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls driving of the pump. And the control unit is a water supply device that controls a pump to cause convection of water in the water storage tank.

In the above embodiment, if a water supply pump is used for the convection of water in the water storage tank, and the control unit controls the number of revolutions of the pump to be equal to or less than the pumping power at the time of water supply, for example, Water is not supplied, and the suction effect of the rotation is transmitted to the water in the water storage tank. Therefore, it is possible to generate a convection effect on the water in the water storage tank by using a water supply pump without using a pump dedicated to convection.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. And a switching valve provided on the discharge port side of the pump to circulate and supply water in the water storage tank by switching, the control unit controls the pump, and the switching valve is switched by the flow of water to switch the water in the water storage tank. It is a water supply device for convection of water.

In the above embodiment, a water supply pump is used for convection of water in the water storage tank, and when the pump is driven by the control unit, water in the water storage tank is sucked, and the switching valve is automatically operated by the flow of water. The water in the water storage tank is circulated through the pump and the switching valve. Therefore, it is possible to generate a positive convection action on the water in the water storage tank by using a water supply pump without using a pump dedicated to convection.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. And a switching valve provided on the discharge port side of the pump to circulate and supply water in the water storage tank by switching, the control unit drives the pump, and switches the switching valve to convect the water in the water storage tank. It is a water supply device.

In the above embodiment, when a water supply pump is used to circulate the water in the water storage tank, and the pump is driven by the control unit and the switching valve is switched, the water in the water storage tank is sucked by the pump. The valve is switched to circulation by the switching valve, and the water in the water storage tank is convected through the pump and the switching valve. Therefore, it is possible to generate a positive convection action on the water in the water storage tank by using a water supply pump without using a pump dedicated to convection.

The invention according to claim 8 is a water storage tank, a pump that is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit that controls driving of the pump. The pump is provided with a water purification filter in the casing at a position where water given the flow rate by the pump passes, the control unit is a water supply device that controls the drive of the pump and convects the water in the water storage tank. is there.

In the above embodiment, the water in the water storage tank sucked by the pump is supplied through a water purification filter provided at a position in a relatively wide casing through which water supplied at a flow rate by the pump passes. Is done. Therefore, the water purification filter does not have to be particularly large in the casing, so that the pump does not have to be particularly noticeable, yet it can be arranged relatively widely. In addition, if a pump for water supply is used for convection of water in the water storage tank, and the control unit controls the rotation speed of the pump to be equal to or less than the pumping power at the time of water supply, for example, water is not supplied. Thus, the suction action by the rotation is transmitted to the water in the water storage tank. Therefore, it is possible to generate a convection effect on the water in the water storage tank by using a water supply pump without using a pump dedicated to convection.

The ninth aspect of the present invention is the first aspect of the present invention.
A refrigerator or an electric jar pot using the water supply device according to claim 8.

In the above embodiment, the refrigerator or electric jar pot can be made compact by mounting the water supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and can supply clean water.

[0029]

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water supply apparatus according to the present invention.

(Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an automatic ice-making apparatus of a refrigerator having an embodiment corresponding to the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, and FIG. 2 shows the same water supply apparatus. It is sectional drawing.

A water supply pump 23 is detachably provided in a transparent thermoplastic resin water storage tank 22 installed in the refrigerator body 21 so as to be able to be taken out. The pump 23 for supplying water is provided outside the water storage tank 22 with the refrigerator main body 2.
1, a motor 25 for rotating a magnet 24 as a pump driving unit, a casing 28 having a water inlet 26 and a discharge port 27 as a pump unit, and a casing 28 having a water suction port 26 and a discharge port 27 as a pump unit. Magnet 2 in casing 28
It comprises a 9-impeller 30. The motor 25 causes the magnet 24 as a coupling to face the magnet 29 of the impeller 30 so as to face the magnet 29 and rotate the impeller 30 by non-contact. The casing 28 includes a casing base 28a and a casing cover 28b, and these are fitted into the concave and convex by rotation so as to be disassembled. Reference numeral 31 denotes a water purification filter for purifying water in the water storage tank 22. The water purification filter 31 is detachably installed around the rotation area of the impeller 30 along a path from the impeller 30 to the discharge port 27 on the inner peripheral surface of the casing base 28a. 32 is the discharge port 2
7, a discharge pipe as a water supply passage connected to the casing cover 28b and connected to the casing cover 28b, 33 is a suction pipe as a suction passage formed integrally with the casing cover 28b and connected to the suction port 26, and 34 is a four impeller 30. A rotating shaft of plastic magnets 29 arranged at equal intervals is supported by a casing base 28a. Reference numeral 35 denotes a holder on which the motor 25 is mounted, and reference numeral 36 denotes a control unit including a microcomputer or the like for controlling driving of the motor 25 for a predetermined time.

An ice tray 37 is provided with water in the water storage tank 22 through a discharge pipe 32 by a water supply pump 23. The ice tray is provided in a freezing room in the refrigerator body 21 to freeze the water to produce ice. It is. 38 is an ice storage container for receiving ice detached from the ice tray 37 rotated upside down by the drive control device 39, and 40 is an ice storage amount detector for detecting that the ice in the ice storage container 38 is running low. The detection signal thus generated is sent from the drive control device 39 to the control unit 36,
The pump 23 operates under the control of the control unit 36 to supply a fixed amount of water in the water storage tank 22 to the ice tray 37.

In the above configuration, when a water supply signal is input, the control unit 36 sends a drive signal to the pump 23, and the motor 25 is driven to rotate the magnet 24. Then, the magnet 29 in the casing 28 is rotated by the rotated magnet 24, and the impeller 30 attached thereto is also rotated in the same manner to generate a suction action. As a result, the water storage tank 22
The water inside is sucked into the casing 28 through the suction port 26 through the suction pipe 33, passes through the water purification filter 31 while turning under centrifugal force by the impeller 30, and passes through the discharge port 2.
7 is discharged out of the casing 28 and a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the ice tray 37 at a predetermined position via the discharge pipe 32. Thereafter, a signal for stopping water supply is sent from the control unit 36 to the pump 23, and the rotation of the motor 25 is stopped.

At the time of such water supply, the water storage tank 2
Each time the water in 2 is supplied by the pump 23, the water purification filter 3
Since it is purified by 1, fresh water can always be used. Then, the water purification filter 31 encircles the rotation region of the impeller 30 on a path of the inner peripheral surface of the casing 28 from the impeller 30 to the discharge port 27 where water flows vigorously while rotating while receiving centrifugal force by the impeller 30. This means that it is installed in a relatively large area within a limited space.

Therefore, it is possible to secure the surface area of the water purification filter 31 to sufficiently exhibit the water purification function without making the casing 28 so large, and to make the pump 23 having the water purification function compact. Things. That is, the fact that the pump 23 can be made compact can reduce the proportion of the limited space in the water storage tank 22 whose size is limited due to the installation in the refrigerator main body 21, and reduce the proportion that can be used for the original purpose. Is obtained. Also, when the water tank 22 is taken out of the refrigerator main body 21 and the pump 23 is washed, the handling can be easily performed.

Further, when cleaning the pump 23 as described above, the water filter 31 removes the pump 23 from the water storage tank 22 and removes the casing 28 from the casing base 28.
a) It can be disassembled into the casing cover 28b and can be taken out and washed, and the water purifying function can always be maximized.

Although the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28 in the above embodiment, a filter for removing a large foreign substance that hinders the rotation of the impeller 30 is provided separately in the suction pipe 33 or the like. Of course, you can do that.

(Embodiment 2) FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a water supply apparatus according to an embodiment corresponding to the fifth and eighth aspects of the present invention. The present invention is different from the above-described first embodiment in the configuration of the control unit for controlling the driving of the water supply pump, and the other parts having the same configuration and the operation and effect are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description. Are omitted, and different points will be mainly described.

A control unit 36a controls the driving of the water supply pump 23. The control unit 36a drives the pump 23 at a high speed for a predetermined time to supply water to a predetermined location for a predetermined purpose,
A deciding unit that drives the pump 23 at a low speed rotation for a predetermined time so as to be equal to or less than the pumping capacity when supplying water to the pump 23 for a predetermined time to determine a convection signal when only the flow of water in the water storage tank 22 is caused, and periodically converts the convection signal And a timer unit and the like. The pump 23 has the configuration shown in FIG.

In the above embodiment, when a convection signal is issued from the timer section of the control section 36a, the determination section determines this and sends a signal for driving the water supply pump 23 from the control section 36a. As a result, the control unit 36a controls the motor 25 so that the number of revolutions thereof is equal to or lower than the pumping capacity when the pump 23 supplies water, for example. Then, although the pump 23 does not supply water, the stirring of the impeller 30 due to the rotation is transmitted to the water in the water storage tank 22, and a convection action occurs for a predetermined time. After the predetermined time, the control unit 36a stops the rotation of the motor 25 to stop the convection action.

On the other hand, when a water supply signal is input, the control unit 3
The determination unit 6a determines this, sends a drive signal for supplying water to the pump 23, and the motor 25 is driven to rotate the magnet 24 at high speed. Then, the magnet 29 in the casing 28 is rotated by the rotated magnet 24, and the impeller 30 attached thereto is also rotated in the same manner to generate a suction action. As a result, the water in the water storage tank 22 is sucked into the casing 28 from the suction port 26 via the suction pipe 33, passes through the water purification filter 31 while rotating by receiving centrifugal force by the impeller 30, and passes through the discharge port 27 through the casing 27. A predetermined amount of water is supplied to the ice tray 37 at a predetermined position through the discharge pipe 32 and discharged through the discharge pipe 32. Thereafter, a signal for stopping water supply is sent from the control unit 36a to the pump 23, and the rotation of the motor 25 is stopped.

As described above, according to the present invention, the water in the water storage tank 22 in a limited space is periodically controlled by using the water supply pump 23 without using the convection pump. To prevent water aging due to prolonged stagnation and keep the water relatively fresh until it is no longer used. Of course, pump 2
In addition to the positive convection effect occurring in the water in the water storage tank 22 during the water supply operation by the step 3, the water is kept fresh. The control unit 36a is configured so that when the convection signal and the water supply signal are issued at the same time, the water supply signal takes precedence to perform the work.

In the above embodiment, the pump 23 in which the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28 is used. However, even if a pump without a water purification filter is used, the periodic convection action and the The water in the water storage tank 22 can be kept fresh by preventing aging caused by prolonged stagnation by both the positive convection action and the positive convection action. Further, in the above embodiment, the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28. Alternatively, a filter for removing a large foreign substance that hinders rotation of the impeller 30 as in the related art may be provided in the suction pipe 33 or the like. Of course.

(Embodiment 3) FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a water supply apparatus according to an embodiment corresponding to the sixth and eighth aspects of the present invention, and FIGS. 5 (a) and 5 (b) show switching of the water supply apparatus. It is sectional drawing which shows operation | movement of a valve. The first and second embodiments of the present invention are characterized in that a control unit for controlling the drive of a water supply pump and a switching valve for switching between supplying water from a water storage tank and generating convection are provided. Different from the second aspect of the invention, other parts having the same configuration and operation and effect are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described.

Reference numeral 36b denotes a control unit for controlling the drive of the water supply pump 23. The control unit 36b drives the pump 23 for a predetermined time, and supplies a water supply signal for supplying water to a predetermined location for a predetermined purpose, and drives the pump 23 for a predetermined time. A convection signal for causing only convection in the water in the water storage tank 22, a timer unit for periodically generating the convection signal, and the like. The control unit 36b controls the pump 23 during the water supply signal.
Is controlled to rotate at high speed and to rotate at low speed during the convection signal. Reference numeral 41 denotes a switching valve provided in the middle of the discharge pipe 32 of the pump 23 immersed in the water of the water storage tank 22 and automatically switched by a strong discharge flow at the time of water supply of the pump 23 and a weak discharge flow at the time of convection. 27 is a discharge pipe 32
Alternatively, it communicates with the inside of the water storage tank 22. The switching valve 41 is provided with a water supply port 43 communicating with the discharge pipe 32 and a circulation port 44 communicating with the water storage tank 22 in the valve case 42, and a self-weight valve A45 and a self-weight valve that alternately open and close the water supply port 43 and the circulation port 44 in conjunction with each other. B46 is installed. That is, the own weight valves 45 and 46 are pushed up by the discharge flow at the time of water supply as shown in FIG. 5A, close the circulation port 44 by the own weight valve 46, open the water supply port 43 by the own weight valve 45, and conversely, FIG. (B) As shown in FIG.
6 opens the circulation port 44 and the own weight valve 45 closes the water supply port 43. 47 is a communication hole provided in the self-weight valve 46;
Are connected by arranging their own weight valves 45 and 46 vertically.
A connecting shaft 50 supported so as to be able to move up and down is a stopper for preventing the self-weight valve 46 from coming in contact with the valve. The pump 23 has the configuration shown in FIG.

In the above embodiment, when the convection signal is issued from the timer section of the control section 36b, the determination section determines this and sends a signal for driving the water supply pump 23 at a low speed from the control section 36b. As a result, the motor 25 is rotated at a low speed by the control unit 36b. Then, the magnet 29 in the casing 28 also rotates at a low speed by the magnet 24 rotated at a low speed together with the motor 25, and the impeller 30 attached thereto also rotates at a low speed in the same manner to generate an attraction action. As a result, the water in the water storage tank 22 is sucked into the casing 28 through the suction pipe 26 through the suction pipe 33, and
Water purification filter 31 while turning by centrifugal force due to zero
, And is discharged from the discharge port 27 to the outside of the casing 28, and the convective discharge flow having a weak flow flows into the switching valve 41. This switching valve 41 is, as shown in FIG.
5 closes the water supply port 43 by its own weight, and its own weight valve 46
Is opened by its own weight, and the water flows as shown by the arrow to cause a convection action on the water in the water storage tank 22 for a predetermined time. After the predetermined time, the control unit 36b stops the rotation of the motor 25 and stops the convection action.

On the other hand, when a water supply signal is input, the control unit 3
The determination unit 6b determines this, sends a drive signal for supplying water to the pump 23, and the motor 25 is driven to rotate the magnet 24 at high speed. Then, the magnet 29 in the casing 28 rotates at a high speed by the magnet 24 rotated at a high speed, and the impeller 30 attached thereto also rotates at a high speed in the same manner to generate a suction action. As a result, the water in the water storage tank 22 is strongly sucked into the casing 28 from the suction port 26 through the suction pipe 33, passes through the water purification filter 31 while rotating by receiving centrifugal force by the impeller 30, and passes through the discharge port 27. Discharged outside the casing 28, the strong discharge flow flows into the switching valve 41. Then, as shown in FIG. 5A, the switching valve 41 pushes up the self-weight valve 46 with a strong discharge flow and the circulation port 4
4, the self-weight valve 45 opens the water supply port 43 and water flows as indicated by the arrow, and a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the ice tray 37 at a predetermined position via the discharge pipe 32. After that, the control unit 36b
, A signal to stop water supply is sent to the pump 23, and the rotation of the motor 25 is stopped.

As described above, according to the present invention, the water in the water storage tank 22 in a limited space is regularly and positively convected by using the water supply pump 23 without using the convection pump. It can act to prevent water from aging due to prolonged stagnation and keep the water relatively fresh until it is no longer used. Of course, pump 2
In addition to the positive convection effect occurring in the water in the water storage tank 22 during the water supply operation by the step 3, the water is kept fresh. The control unit 36b is configured such that when the convection signal and the water supply signal are simultaneously issued, the water supply signal takes precedence to perform the work.

In the above embodiment, the pump 23 in which the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28 is used. However, even if a pump without a water purification filter is used, the periodic convection action and the The water in the water storage tank 22 can be kept fresh by preventing aging caused by prolonged stagnation by both the positive convection action and the positive convection action. Further, in the above embodiment, the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28. Alternatively, a filter for removing a large foreign substance that hinders rotation of the impeller 30 as in the related art may be provided in the suction pipe 33 or the like. Of course.

(Embodiment 4) FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a water supply apparatus according to an embodiment corresponding to the seventh and eighth aspects of the present invention. The first and second embodiments of the present invention are characterized in that a control unit for controlling the drive of a water supply pump and a switching valve for switching between supplying water from a water storage tank and generating convection are provided. 2. Unlike the invention of the third embodiment, other parts having the same configuration and operation and effect are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described.

Reference numeral 36c denotes a control unit for controlling the operation of the water supply pump 23. The control unit 36 drives the pump 23 at a high speed for a predetermined time to supply a water supply signal for supplying water to a predetermined location for a certain purpose, and a high-speed operation of the pump 23. It is configured to include a determination unit that is driven for a predetermined time and determines a convection signal when only convection occurs in the water in the water storage tank 22, a timer unit that periodically emits the convection signal, and the like. Reference numeral 51 denotes a switching valve, such as an electromagnetic valve, provided in the middle of the discharge pipe 32 of the pump 23 so as to be submerged in the water of the water storage tank 22. When a water supply signal is received from the control unit 36c, the discharge port 27 of the pump 23 is connected to the discharge pipe 32. Side, and when the convection signal is received from the control unit 36c, the discharge port 27 of the pump 23 communicates with the inside of the water storage tank 22 and is switched. The pump 23 has the configuration shown in FIG.

In the above embodiment, when the convection signal is issued from the timer section of the control section 36c, the judgment section judges this, and the control section 36c outputs a signal for driving the water supply pump 23 at high speed and the switching valve 51. A signal is transmitted to switch to communicate with the inside of the water storage tank 22 during convection. Then, the switching valve 51 communicates with the inside of the water storage tank 22 during convection by the control unit 36c, the motor 25 rotates at high speed, and the magnet 24 in the casing 28 also rotates at high speed by the magnet 24 rotated at high speed together with the motor 25. Impeller 3 attached to
Similarly, 0 rotates at a high speed to generate a suction action. As a result, the water in the water storage tank 22 is sucked into the casing 28 through the suction port 26 through the suction pipe 33, and is rotated by receiving centrifugal force by the impeller 30 while turning.
1 and is discharged from the discharge port 27 to the outside of the casing 28 via the switching valve 51, returns to the inside of the water storage tank 22 via the switching valve 51, and thereafter circulates in this manner. Therefore, a positive convection action can be generated in the water in the water storage tank 22 for a predetermined time, and after the predetermined time, the motor 2 is controlled by the control unit 36c.
The rotation of 5 stops and the convection action stops.

On the other hand, when a water supply signal is input, the control unit 3
The determination unit 6c determines this, and sends a drive signal for supplying water to the pump 23 and a signal for switching the switching valve 51 so as to communicate with the discharge pipe 32 side. Then, the motor 25 is driven to rotate the magnet 24 at a high speed. The magnet 24 also rotates the magnet 29 in the casing 28 at a high speed. The impeller 30 attached to the magnet 24 also rotates at a high speed to generate a suction action. . As a result, the water in the water storage tank 22 is
3, is strongly sucked into the casing 28 from the suction port 26 through the suction port 26, passes through the water purification filter 31 while being swirled by the centrifugal force of the impeller 30, and is discharged from the discharge port 27 to the outside of the casing 28 via the switching valve 51. A predetermined amount of water is supplied to a predetermined ice tray 37 via the discharge pipe 32. Thereafter, a signal for stopping water supply is sent from the control unit 36c to the pump 23, and the rotation of the motor 25 is stopped.

As described above, according to the present invention, the water in the water storage tank 22 in the limited space is regularly and positively convected by using the water supply pump 23 without using the convection pump. The effect is to prevent the water from aging due to prolonged stagnation and to keep the water relatively fresh until it is no longer used. Needless to say, the water can be kept fresher in combination with the positive convection effect occurring in the water in the water storage tank 22 during the water supply operation by the pump 23. The control unit 36b is configured such that when the convection signal and the water supply signal are simultaneously issued, the water supply signal takes precedence to perform the work.

In the above embodiment, the pump 23 in which the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28 is used. However, even if a pump without a water purification filter is used, the periodic convection action and the The water in the water storage tank 22 can be kept fresh by preventing aging caused by prolonged stagnation by both the positive convection action and the positive convection action. Further, in the above embodiment, the water purification filter 31 is provided in the casing 28. Alternatively, a filter for removing a large foreign substance that hinders rotation of the impeller 30 as in the related art may be provided in the suction pipe 33 or the like. Of course.

[0056]

As described above, the invention according to claim 1 of the present invention provides a water storage tank, a pump that is detachably installed in the water storage tank, and that sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position. The pump is provided with a control unit for controlling the driving of the pump. The pump is a water supply device provided with a water purification filter in a casing at a position through which water given a flow rate by the pump passes, and the water purification filter has a relatively wide area in the casing. In addition to being able to make the device compact, the purification function can be fully exhibited and fresh water can be supplied.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. The pump has a casing provided with a suction port and a discharge port, and means for rotating in the casing to suction and discharge water, and purifying water in a path in the casing from the means to the discharge port. In a water supply device equipped with a filter, a water purification filter is disposed in a relatively wide area in a path in a casing from a means for sucking and discharging water to a discharge port, and the device can be made compact, and a sufficient purification function can be achieved. It can be used to supply fresh water.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump section which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and drives the pump section in a non-contact manner. A pump drive unit, and a control unit for controlling the rotation of the pump drive unit, the pump unit rotates in a casing provided with a suction port and a discharge port and in this casing,
A water supply device having an impeller for sucking and discharging water, and having a water purification filter provided so as to surround a rotation range of the impeller in a path in the casing from the impeller to the discharge port, wherein the water purification filter discharges water from the impeller. It is arranged in a relatively wide area surrounding the rotation range of the impeller on the path in the casing to the outlet, and can not only make the device compact, but also exhibit a sufficient purifying function and supply fresh water.

The invention described in claim 4 is the first invention.
4. The water purification filter according to claim 3, wherein the casing of the pump or the pump section is disassembled and a water purification filter is detachably provided in the casing, and the casing is disassembled and taken out. Can be easily cleaned, and the purifying function can always be maximized.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. The control unit is a water supply device that controls a pump to convect water in a water storage tank, and a water supply pump can be used for convection and can be a compact device,
The water in the water storage tank can be kept fresh.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is removably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. And a switching valve provided on the discharge port side of the pump to circulate and supply water in the water storage tank by switching, the control unit controls the pump, and the switching valve is switched by the flow of water to switch the water in the water storage tank. A water supply device that circulates water through the use of a pump for water supply for convection and can be made compact, and the water in the water storage tank can always be kept fresh by active convection.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. And a switching valve provided on the discharge port side of the pump to circulate and supply water in the water storage tank by switching, the control unit drives the pump, and switches the switching valve to circulate water in the water storage tank. The water supply device uses a water supply pump for convection and can be made compact, and the water in the water storage tank can always be kept fresh by active convection.

The invention according to claim 8 provides a water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. The pump is provided with a water purification filter in the casing at a position where water given the flow rate by the pump passes, the control unit is a water supply device that controls the drive of the pump and convects the water in the water storage tank. Since the water purification filter is disposed in a relatively wide area in the casing and the pump for water supply is used for convection, it is possible to make the device more compact, and to purify the water in the water storage tank by the purification function and the convection action. Can be kept fresher.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator or an electric jar can be provided with the water supply apparatus according to any one of the first to eighth aspects and can be made compact and can supply clean water.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating an automatic ice making device of a refrigerator equipped with a water supply device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing a water supply device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a water supply device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram showing a water supply device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a switching valve at the time of supplying water in the water supply apparatus of the third embodiment. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a switching valve at the time of convection in the water supply apparatus of the third embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram showing a water supply device according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing a conventional automatic ice making device of a refrigerator equipped with a water supply device.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing the water supply device.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 22 water storage tank 23 pump 25 motor (pump driving unit) 26 suction port 27 discharge port 28 casing (pump unit) 30 impeller 31 water purification filter 36, 36a, 36b, 36c control unit 41, 51 switching valve

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI theme coat ゛ (Reference) F04D 13/16 F04D 13/16 Y 15/00 15/00 A J 29/42 29/42 A B 29 / 44 29/44 A F25C 1/24 309 F25C 1/24 309Z 310 310 (72) Inventor Kazumasa Miyake 4-2-5 Takaidahondori, Higashiosaka-shi, Osaka Matsushita Refrigeration Co., Ltd. F-term (reference) 3H020 AA01 AA07 BA01 BA02 BA03 BA11 CA00 DA01 DA04 DA13 EA09 EA12 3H034 AA01 AA13 BB01 BB06 BB11 CC01 CC03 CC05 CC07 DD01 DD02 DD12 DD16 DD26 DD27 DD28 DD30 EE04 EE12 EE15 3H071 AA01 BB05 CC17 DD18 DD11 DD74 DD75 DD82 DD83 DD84 DD89 3L110 AA02

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A water storage tank, a pump which is removably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls the driving of the pump. A water supply device provided with a water purification filter at a position through which water given a flow rate by a pump passes. 2. A water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls driving of the pump. And a casing provided with a discharge port and a means for rotating in this casing, sucking and discharging water,
And a water supply device provided with a water purification filter in a path in the casing from the means to the discharge port. 3. A water storage tank, a pump unit which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, a pump driving unit which drives the pump unit in a non-contact manner,
A control unit for controlling the pump driving unit; the pump unit includes a casing provided with a suction port and a discharge port, an impeller that rotates in the casing, and sucks and discharges water; A water supply device provided with a water purification filter so as to surround a rotation range of an impeller in a path in the casing to an outlet. 4. The water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the pump or a casing of the pump section is formed so as to be disassembled, and a water purification filter is detachably provided in the casing. 5. A water storage tank, a pump which is removably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls driving of the pump. A water supply device that controls the drive of the water to convect the water in the water storage tank. 6. A water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, a control unit for controlling the driving of the pump, and a discharge port side of the pump. A water supply device provided with a switching valve for convection and supply of water in a water storage tank by switching, wherein the control unit controls a pump, and the switching valve switches by water flow to convect water in the water storage tank. 7. A water storage tank, a pump that is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies water to a predetermined position, a control unit that controls driving of the pump, and a discharge port side of the pump. A water supply device that includes a switching valve for convection and water supply of water in a water storage tank by switching, wherein the control unit drives a pump and switches a switching valve to convect water in the water storage tank. 8. A water storage tank, a pump which is detachably installed in the water storage tank, sucks water and supplies the water to a predetermined position, and a control unit which controls driving of the pump, wherein the pump is provided in a casing. A water supply device, wherein a water purification filter is provided at a position through which water given a flow rate by the pump passes, and the control unit controls driving of the pump to convect water in the water storage tank. 9. A refrigerator or an electric jar pot using the water supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.